“Book of Stones” History Legend Chakra Crystal Resonance Spiritual Heal Emotions For Sale

When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.

“Book of Stones” History Legend Chakra Crystal Resonance Spiritual Heal Emotions:
$69.99

The Book of Stones: Who They Are and What They Teach by Robert Simmons.

NOTE: We have 75,000 books in our library, almost 10,000 different titles. Odds are we have other copies of this same title in varying conditions, some less expensive, some better condition. We might also have different editions as well (some paperback, some hardcover, oftentimes international editions). If you don’t see what you want, please contact us and ask. We’re happy to send you a summary of the differing conditions and prices we may have for the same title.

DESCRIPTION: Paperback. Publisher: North Atlantic Books (2015). Pages: 630. Size: 11 x 7 x 1¼ inches; 3½ pounds.”The Book of Stones” is a new edition of the best-selling guide to some of Earth’s most beautiful natural objects. Two introductory chapters detail the authors’ theories about how to work with crystals and stones, including the concept of crystal resonance and the scientific observation that living organisms (such as ourselves) are liquid crystalline structures. An illuminating alphabetical journey through the mineral kingdom, stone by stone, follows.

Each entry begins with the stone name and photo, plus its elemental and chakra correspondences, as well as keywords that indicate its properties. Next comes a description of the crystal structure, hardness, history, and known locations of each mineral, plus any relevant legend or lore from the past. Each author then offers an essay on the subtle energy properties and spiritual applications of the stone. The entries conclude with summaries of the spiritual, emotional, and physical healing qualities of the stone, and an affirmation for evoking its potential benefits. The book’s presentation is straightforward enough to make it an excellent introduction for beginners, yet the level of detail and the depth of research make it an invaluable resource for the most experienced stone practitioners.

CONDITION: New oversized softcover. North Atlantic Books (2015) 560 pages.Unblemished, unmarked, pristine in every respect. Pages are pristine;clean, crisp, unmarked, unmutilated, tightly bound, unambiguouslyunread. Satisfaction unconditionally guaranteed. In stock, ready toship. No disappointments, no excuses. PROMPT SHIPPING! HEAVILY PADDED,DAMAGE-FREE PACKAGING! Meticulous and accurate descriptions! Sellingrare and out-of-print ancient history books on-line since 1997. Weaccept returns for any reason within 14 days! #5783.1a.

PLEASE SEE DESCRIPTIONS AND IMAGES BELOW FOR DETAILED REVIEWS AND FOR PAGES OF PICTURES FROM INSIDE OF BOOK.

PLEASE SEE PUBLISHER, PROFESSIONAL, AND READER REVIEWS BELOW.

PUBLISHER REVIEWS:

REVIEW: Often dubbed the "crystals bible," this comprehensive reference guide to the spiritual and healing qualities of 455 sacred stones has become the go-to book for looking up the properties of gems and minerals. Each entry includes vivid color photographs for each stone to aid identification and to showcase its beauty, as well as listing its scientific information, its element and chakra correspondences, and the physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits of each stone.

Illustrated by gorgeously lit, clear color photos to aid quick identification, the book offers an illuminating alphabetical journey through the mineral kingdom, stone by stone. The book begins with two introductory chapters detailing advice by authors Naisha Ahsian and Robert Simmons on how to work with crystals and stones, including the concept of crystal resonance and the scientific observation that living organisms (such as ourselves) are liquid crystalline structures. Each entry begins with the stone name and photo, plus its elemental and chakra correspondences, as well as keywords that indicate its properties.

Next comes a description of the crystal structure, hardness, history, and known locations of each mineral, plus any relevant legend or lore from the past. Each author then offers their own take and personal insights on the subtle energy properties and spiritual applications of the stone. The entries conclude with summaries of the spiritual, emotional, and physical healing qualities of the stone, and an affirmation for evoking its potential benefits. The book's presentation is straightforward enough to make it an excellent introduction for beginners, yet the level of detail and the depth of research make it an invaluable resource for the most experienced stone practitioners.

REVIEW: “The Book of Stones” is the most in-depth, definitive guide to the world of crystals, minerals, gemstones and their metaphysical energies that has yet been written. Encompassing over three hundred separate entries, each with vivid color photographs and essays by both authors, this book takes you deep into the world of stones and their uses for spiritual awakening and self-healing. “The Book of Stones” can teach you about each mineral’s scientific properties, history and lore, elemental energies, chakra correspondences, and which stones work best together. Also considered are the stones’ effects on the spiritual, emotional and physical self. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, “The Book of Stones” can give you clear, easy-to-understand information that will help you enjoy the beauty and benefits of the mineral realm. This pictorial metaphysical encyclopedia is what crystal lovers all over the world have been waiting for!

REVIEW: “The Book of Stones” is a best-selling guide to some of Earth’s most beautiful natural objects. Two introductory chapters detail the authors’ theories about how to work with crystals and stones, including the concept of crystal resonance and the scientific observation that living organisms (such as ourselves) are liquid crystalline structures. An illuminating alphabetical journey through the mineral kingdom, stone by stone, follows. Each entry begins with the stone name and photo, plus its elemental and chakra correspondences, as well as keywords that indicate its properties.

Next comes a description of the crystal structure, hardness, history, and known locations of each mineral, plus any relevant legend or lore from the past. Each author then offers an essay on the subtle energy properties and spiritual applications of the stone. The entries conclude with summaries of the spiritual, emotional, and physical healing qualities of the stone, and an affirmation for evoking its potential benefits. The book’s presentation is straightforward enough to make it an excellent introduction for beginners, yet the level of detail and the depth of research make it an invaluable resource for the most experienced stone practitioners.

REVIEW: A comprehensive reference guide to the spiritual healing qualities and scientific properties of hundreds of sacred crystals, minerals, and gemstones, this book includes color photographs to aid in stone identification

REVIEW: Robert Simmons is the founder of Heaven and Earth, a company offering more than 2,000 gem and jewelry items for self-healing and spiritual and emotional development. Together with his wife Kathy Warner, he is the founder and sponsor of The Crystal Conference, an annual four-day teaching event in which the best-known crystal authors and teachers come together to offer intensive workshops to stone enthusiasts from all over the world.

Naisha Ahsian is an author, teacher, and healer with an international practice. She is the creator of the Crystal Resonance Therapy and Primus Activation Healing Technique spiritual healing modalities. Director of the Crystalis Institute for Personal and Planetary Evolution, an educational organization offering training and certification for healers worldwide.

Hazel Raven, former Vice Chairman of ACHO (Affiliation of Crystal Healing Organisations), has been teaching professional crystal programs since 1990. An international writer, lecturer, and therapist, she is a teacher and practitioner member of the BFVEA (British Flower and Vibrational Essence Association).

PROFESSIONAL REVIEWS:

REVIEW: The Book of Stones takes the reader on a fascinating journey. The writing is clear, thoughtful, and easily understood, and the inclusion of scientific data, history, and folklore helps make the book a valuable resource for all those interested in the mineral kingdom. Thom Hartmann, author of “The Prophet’s Way and The Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight”.

REVIEW: Quite easily the most comprehensively written and beautifully photographed book on the subject that I’ve come across. If you own only one reference book on stones and crystals, make sure that this gem is the one. [Dr. Eric Pearl, author or the international bestseller “The Reconnection: Heal Others, Heal Yourself”.

REVIEW: “The Book of Stones” has elevated the spiritual knowledge of crystals into a higher form. The classification of each stone is impeccable, along with wonderful photos, creating an intimate connection with a wide variety of minerals. This book offers us all an opportunity to sharpen our skills and renew our interest in the crystal healing world. [JaneAnn Dow, author of “Crystal Journey: Travel Guide for the New Shaman”.

REVIEW: This beautiful and unusual work opened a new and unknown world to me, right under my feet—a realm of qualities and possibilities of which I had known nothing and for which I am the richer. [Joseph Chilton Pearce, author of “The Crack in the Cosmic Egg”, “The Biology of Transcendence”, and “The Death of Religion and the Rebirth of the Spirit”.

REVIEW: Each description is an intimate conversation between the Wisdom of the Stones and the deep soul Wisdom of thee two authors. [Robert Sardello, PhD, author of “Love and the World and Silence”.

REVIEW: “The Book of Stones” is filled with information and with beauty! [Melody, author of “Love Is in the Earth”.

REVIEW: "The Book of of Stones: Who They Are and What They Teach” by Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian explains the physical and metaphysical properties of crystals, minerals and gemstones."

REVIEW: A welcome addition to the world of stones, offering an opportunity to sharpen skills and renew interest in crystal-healing. [JaneAnn Dow, author of “Crystal Journey: Travel Guide for the New Shaman.”]

REVIEW: If you own only one reference book on stones and crystals, make sure that this gem is this one. [Dr. Eric Pearl, author of the international bestseller “The Reconnection: Heal Others, Heal Yourself.”]

READER REVIEWS:

REVIEW: Rob Simmons certainly knew what he was doing when putting this one together. I love Naisha's entries, and Hazel Raven is a very well respected healer in the UK. Simmons also knows his stuff, and has compiled a convenient guide with photographs for each entry. The book is full of mineralogical data, photographs, diverse views, stones to use in combinations, and affirmations. I recommend this to people that are moving away from the writing styles of the early writers and those like Melody; although they are wonderful, they may seem to esoteric or too impersonal.

REVIEW: This was my first book that I purchased to introduce me to crystals. I recommend it for its truly superb photography as well as the beautiful specimens featured. The photos are great to learn of a mineral you may not have ever have seen in person. also there are concise spiritual, mental, and physical affects listed that emanate from the stones' energies, as well as an affirmation that matches the frequency of a stone with a statement that tells the general idea the stone has to make. This makes it a lot easier to index the underlying lesson to be learned from minerals. Under the listing of the mineral name they have key words associated with the stones, the elemental energy of the stone and the chakras which are affected. The locations of minerals and the class and color of mineral are also discussed.

REVIEW: I am most pleased with having purchased this book. It has stones and crystals that I have read about on various websites but have NOT seen in other books, for example Heulandite is one of them. My mother had found a chunk of it at a crystal shop and had wanted me to find out what it was used for. I could not find any information on it except on the internet, but I was most pleased to see it listed in “The Book of Stones”! I have also found some other stones/crystals I had heard of, but never found a good description of them anywhere but the internet.

In this book I really like that they give you some key words for each stone/crystal. Key words for Heulandite are: dreams, visions, emotional healing, etc.They also list the element that the stone is with, for example Heulandite's element is wind. Also included are the chakras in which the stones would work with. Heulandite works with the heart, third eye, and crown chakras.I very much enjoy the pictures they have added, they vary from natural formations, cut, tumbled, and spheres.

Both Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian give descriptions about each stone, so instead of one person talking about the stone you have two. Naisha also likes to list down the spiritual properties, emotional, physical, and affirmation of most stones, which I find is most helpful as well. It is a long read but definitely a wealth of information.

REVIEW: Although not one to write reviews for books I could not pass this one by. It is by far the most in depth book of this type out and is long over-due. As with all books of this size and scale, and dealing with such subjects as these, not everyone will agree with everything written within but this is how it should be. I have been working with minerals for over 25 years and one of the first things I learned was that all stones have unique personalities which in some cases go beyond what has been written by others. It is up to each of us to learn what we can from individual stones.

Books such as this one are great references and go a long way in setting guidelines as we travel down our paths but it is our personal experiences with individual stones where we find the deepest truths. All this being said this is a book I would recommend to anyone interested in exploring the properties of minerals. This book is not only for beginners but also for those who have been working with stones for many years. It brings a fresh view to a subject that hasn't been addressed in this depth in many years. As such I have bought 35 copies to send to friends and past students so that they too can gain some insight into the world of stones as viewed through the eyes of these authors.

REVIEW: Excellent book, very useful for those who would like to know the metaphysical meanings of stones/minerals. This book includes some stones that were not in my other books, such as Spirit Crystal, The Nebula Stone, and Shiva Lingam, among others. There are 465 pages of information, which include color pictures of the stones. There is a 4-page table of content listing, covering approximately 331 stones/minerals. This book also provides an extended write-up on Moldavite (one of my favorites). There are also about 15 pages of introductory material on the authors' perspectives of stones, the classifications used in the book, consciousness with stones, stone layouts, meditating with stones, stone elements (fire/storm/wind/earth/water), chakras, etc. I like to read about the stones and their properties.

To give you an example, let's take The Nebula Stone. There is a picture, which in this case looks exactly like mine. The key words are: "bringing spiritual light into matter, attuning to probable futures, fulfilling one's highest aspirations, feeling at home in the body and on Earth". The element is "Storm" (used when massive transformation, cleansing, and radical dynamic balancing are called for, etc.) . The chakras are: all, especially Root (1st) and Crown (7th). A brief paragraph follows, explaining the stone was found in the desert of the American Southwest, that its appearance is reminiscent of the nebulas in space, and its composition is alkalis volcanic rock composed almost exclusively of the four minerals; Quartz, Anorthoclase, Riebeckite, and Aegirine.

Arthur Robert Simmons follows with four paragraphs on his insights on the stone and its metaphysical properties. Author Naisha Ahsian follows with her comments in three paragraphs, followed by one or more sentences on the stone's spiritual, emotional, and physical uses and concludes with an affirmation related to the stone. There is also quite a bit of info on Azeztulite, a variety of quartz, found in North Carolina and later in Vermont. It sounds like a very interesting stone and very interesting reading.

I used think that people who played with crystals were a little nuts and I deeply apologize for my ignorance, for I truly did not understand what they already knew. In fact, I was drawn to stones as a child, but dismissed the attraction as I turned into a teen. Later, I collected jewelry pieces, not realizing these pieces were the same as the unpolished stones. About 5 years ago or so, my interest in all stones returned. One of my awakening stones was Moldavite. I had a piece made for me with a Herkimer Diamond by some newly acquired friends at the time. The energy was so strong, it took me about 2 weeks of wearing it in intervals before I could wear it all day. Then I wore it 24/7 for about a year or more.

Currently, I have a piece of Covellite with Petalite that I have been wearing 24/7 for the last 2 years. I tell you all this only to say that I am sold on the realization that stones have energies that they pass on to us, if we allow it and many of these "passed on" energies can greatly impact us in positive ways that we would never have dreamed of if we had not opened our mind to the possibilities. Many people say that the stone(s) that you need will sort of "call" you. They may appear beautiful or sparkly to you, or for some reason, you can't stop thinking about them. I like to let them call me, buy them, then come home and look them up in the books in my personal library to find out WHY they "called" me.

I am very pleased with this book and it is a welcome addition to my reference library. The book also covers some of the spiritual-seeker's other favorites. Besides moldavite, you can find petalite, azeztulite, danburite, and phenacite. (powerful stones) Covellite is another power stone. I wear a combo petalite and covellite piece and a moldavite ring 24/7. Update, March 2009: I bought this book for a friend recently. She makes jewelry from stones. This book lists a lot of stones not found in Melody's “Love Is in the Earth” book, so it is a great compliment to my and to my friend's library. I also found a nice pair of moldavite and danburite earrings on the the author's website. The energy in these earrings is very beautiful and loving. I have another friend who owns a New Age store. She looks at me and shakes her head. She says with the stone combination I am wearing, she cannot believe I am still standing upright. (my energy friends will understand that one.) If you can only buy two books on stones, make this one of them.

REVIEW: I only started working with crystal a few years ago. I suppose I was brought up with it as in Chinese culture, jade is a very significant stone to us. It acts as a protector on all fronts. Working with crystal is totally a personal experience. I view each crystal as a key, like in music or a transmitter that can receive and transmit vibration. I cannot remember individual names of crystals however I find myself using it intuitively. Every time I choose to use a crystal, it is a synergy of place, time and people in my reality that makes it work with us efficiently.

Vibration is very abstract, however the color photos of every stone explained in this book bring the vibrations up to date into our reality. The color, the shape, the structural components are all there for us to visualize and experience. It makes tuning in with each stone even though without its physical presence a possibility. In my perception, this book facilitates a fantastic range of frequency for me to access. Experiences with stones can be extremely exciting when you hit “The One”. However, despite the excitements that Robert projects in this book, he constantly reminds us, from the Introduction section, and throughout the book, about using our own intuition. I quote, “Don't take our words, or anyone's, as gospel truth. People's experience of stone energies vary at least as much as their experiences of music, art....”. This is an expression of a true master.

The separate comments of each stone from Robert and Naisha are very interesting. It is like the different styles of learning and studying in University verses Primary/Secondary schools. You can either choose to explore the stone intuitively as a whole or you can experience it step by step in different aspects.This book makes a great reading too. It reflects the personal experience of the authors and perception in life working along side stones. I am particularly impressed by the writing about `Integration Crystal (Transmitter) on page 322: "The Integration Crystal ....representing the balance between spiritual knowledge and action. This configuration represents the end of apprenticeship and the beginning of autonomous action. Once has received the knowledge that was necessary to understand one's path, and now one must begin to apply that knowledge in the real world.”

“In the past, it was more accepted for one to spend one's life in monastic isolation, supported in the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. By becoming a monk, nun, spiritual ascetic, or other dedicated seeker, one could remove oneself from the concerns of the world and focus solely on the concerns of the soul. In current times, however, we are being asked to bring our spiritual learning and knowledge to the world, rather than hiding it behind temple walls. This is a much more difficult task, since it requires the integration of Spirit into every level of one's life, - even when one's practice consists of going to work, cooking meals, cleaning house, taking children to practice or other events, and generally living a `normal' life, with consciousness. ........it is no longer enough to simply to `get high' on energy and knowledge. It is necessary to bring this frequency into one's body and ground it into every action one takes. It is about applying one's learning to real life situation and balance the life of the soul with physical life. "

Every piece of their writing serves as a message for anyone who is ready to pick up and to apply to her/his life. It is so realistic that I can imagine replacing all the names of stone by one term `This Key' and the book will still remain so rich with information for me to use in my own life. Naisha's affirmation for each stone, literally, stands up on its own for us to practice, for example, on p. 147: “I open myself to the love, knowledge, wisdom and blessings of the higher realms, and I help bring them into the world.” That is exactly what Robert and Naisha have done, bringing their knowledge through working with stones together in this book, making accessible to me and to the world. I thank them for their intention with eternal gratitude.

REVIEW: I have been working with stones and making jewelry for about 5 years, and have struggled to find a book that covers the physical, geological, emotional, and spiritual aspects of stones. I used to use “The Crystal Bible”, which is not very complete, and after trudging through Melody's “Love is in the Earth” for years, I was so overjoyed to find this comprehensive, beautifully illustrated book by two lovely authors. Each stone has a natural crystal formation photograph and a cut stone example, which helps both hardcore rock hounds and jewelers alike. I highly recommend this book as do some of my spiritually minded jeweler sisters! Each author offers their own take on the stone, and between the two, you are bound to resonate with some of the information. There might be a few stones missing here, but frankly I'm tired of Melody making up names for stones that have no picture identification. This book rocks! ;)

REVIEW: I have a large collection of stones and books on stones, and this book is by far my favorite. The depth and wisdom conveyed here is a cut above. I was wary, at first, because of the maligned "trademarked" stones in the book- and of accusations that the authors are just using this book to sell these stones. However, after purchasing a number of the "trademarked" stones from other vendors (not from “Heaven and Earth”), I found the stones to have exactly the metaphysical properties that these authors claimed them to have, and they are now some of my very favorite stones. I can't blame the author for building a business and making a living. We are all trying to do that.

REVIEW: Beautifully written book by Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian. The presentation of the stones are breathtaking. Some of the finest specimens are displayed with a picture for EVERY stone. I am constantly referring to this book as a resource for information on spiritual, emotional and physical properties of the stones. This book is great for someone new to stone (crystal) energy and usage as well as the seasoned practitioner. This is a great gift from two great people (the authors)!

REVIEW: crystal lovers everywhere please take note! This is seriously an awesome book. You can’t pack this one in your bag and walk around a crystal store or spiritual event, but believe me, sat at home in your cozy chair you will enjoy many hours reading about an array of crystals. This book is exciting! The introduction sucks you in, inviting you to read on and explore the amazing crystals. The book is written by two authors, each of them giving you their knowledge on each crystal. It is full of valuable information and absolutely jam packed with fine details. It is like no other crystal book i have ever read! The authors are absolutely dedicated to crystals and their passion is obvious throughout the book. This book is in a league of its own and for any one out there reading this who loves crystals I would recommend it one hundred percent.

REVIEW: I like it! It was more expensive than I'd usually pay for a book, but worth every penny. I'd previewed the book prior to buying and that helped me make the decision. It's a sensible size unlike “The Crystal Bible” and the print is a decent size too. The photography is great too. I've identified at least one mystery crystal from flicking through it. My edition does indeed have an index at the back with physical complaints and then another one for metaphysical, so I can find whatever I want fairly easily. Well worth the money in my opinion as I suspect it'll be my first choice in reference now and I have a few crystal books, I seem to collect them like I collect crystals.

REVIEW: I have many, many books on crystals and rocks and minerals, but not one can compare to this book! I refer to it regularly and it has helped me choose stones that I seem to need on my path in my life right now. I love the way Naisha Ahsian and Robert Simmons have written their own reviews on each stone. They tell you how each stone resonates with other stones to get the maximum benefit from both stones. I haven't found another crystal book yet with that type of information. On each stone they give you a short line on how it affects the spiritual, emotional, physical and an affirmation of the stone! Wow, you can't beat that can you! This book is like a community of crystals and their uniqueness and special qualities are all noted! I would not do with out this book and take it where ever I am purchasing other stones for my collection and path in life. The picture for each stone is absolutely beautiful and large enough to get a true idea on its color and style. They have a special section on the different types of quartz, its location and it's many formations with a picture showing that particular formation on a real crystal! It is in my opinion, by far the absolute best "Book of Stones" that I have come across so far!!! All of my friends who collect crystals and stones feel the same way I do about this wonderful book, and have one too! I love it! Thank you Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian and Hazel Raven for such a fantastic book and for your time in putting it all together in this "Book of Stones"!

REVIEW: Of the myriad of books and guides on metaphysical crystals and gemstones, this one stands head and shoulders above the rest! This book was written specimen by specimen, with great devotion, care and time devoted to each. It gives a brief scientific description of the structure, nature and source of each stone and mineral, and then provides a wealth of wisdom from a purely energetic point of view. I do firmly believe that each stone can and does have an entirely different effect on different individuals, but it is necessary to have an intelligent and informative description, from people who honor a wide variety of traditions and paths, to even know where you might wish to begin in your use of stones for healing, self improvement, or magickal uses! This book is indispensable for anyone working with the "Stone People", and includes all stones, from the most common Quartz (about which there is really nothing common at all!) to the more exotic members of the tribe! And, each is illustrated with an excellent photograph for reference as well.

REVIEW: This is my “bible” as stones go. This is a great and hugely informative book if you are into collecting and the metaphysical. All entries have a paragraph about the physical (scientific) properties such as hardness, colors and varieties, as well as where they are found/mined. Written by a few experts in the field, you get two metaphysical descriptions as well. One from a man, the other from a woman. I love this aspect because it gives two "feelings" for each stone. Most usually, they are in line with each other, and they compliment each other extremely well. The pictures are great, it is very well written and a MUST have if you are into collecting! Some of the descriptions may be hard to read if you are not into the metaphysical aspect of stones. However, if you are, there is no better book out there.

REVIEW: Very well written, it captures your interests by combining the practical research of the classification and composition of the selected stones with the mystical side of their history. It is written with two separate essays from both the authors so you get a duel perspective of the stone. Although some would call researching and the using of stones, New Age it actually is not, fascination of stones and their "uses" can be traced back to the Bible, Torah, and Koran, as well as such Pagan religions such as Wicca, so I suppose the stones hold something for everybody. This is a fun and entertaining book, it is not something that you will sit and read from cover to cover unless you are a text book geek,(and if you are you really need to get out more) but when a stone fascinates you, or the preacher/rabbi/ whoever talks of a holy stone, or you see a special rock that puts a happy glimmer in your eye, open up this book, look the stone up, and learn a little, okay a lot. This is more than just a pretty book, it actually has depth and well detailed research behind it, and in my opinion, that's exactly what this type of book should do.REVIEW: This is far and away the best book on crystals and gemstones you'll yet find. It's beautifully illustrated with full-color photos of each type of stone and there are so many listed therein. Each stone is introduced by keywords, associated elements, and associated chakras. The core description begins with a geological notation on the stone's mineral constituents and where the stone is usually found. Thereafter is an intuitive description from Robert Simmons and then an intuitive description from Naisha Ahsian (with occasional descriptions from Hazel Raven). Simmons typically gives other suggestions for which other stones will work well with a given stone. Ahsian typically ends her descriptions with a physical/emotional/spiritual summary and affirmation. After working with several of these stones, my own experiences are somewhere in the midst of what Simmons and Ahsian have to write. I appreciate the different takes on each stone, as it allows for one to synthesize different perspectives of how the stone may work (or is working) for you. A huge boon to lithotherapy and other healing practices or even if you're just dabbling. It's a pretty book. Cannot recommend it enough!

REVIEW: This has got to be the most comprehensive, informative book on the subject of stones and crystals I have ever seen! It's absolutely wonderful! The pictures of each crystal/stone are so life-like you feel like they're right there for you to touch. I highly recommend this book to anyone searching for information on the subject.

REVIEW: If you are interested in buying a book about the healing qualities of stones, then this IS the BOOK! I have several books on the subject and this one is by far my favorite. Great descriptions, chakra info, affirmations, gorgeous pictures, just a great user-friendly format all-around. A pleasurable reference book, that never gets tiring. I hope they make a part II as there are some stones that are not covered, but they do get the vast majority. A celebration for stone/mineral/Earth lovers! Let there be LIGHT.

REVIEW: I looked for weeks for the right book on this topic. I believe this is it. Excellent descriptions from each one of the authors, and color photos of each stone listed. There's a section on how to use the stones. I can hardly put the book down! I am looking for a copy of this book for my best friend, as she has threatened to steal mine! I have never written a review before. All I can say is BUY THIS BOOK! If you don't buy this book, you will be losing out.

REVIEW: Of all my crystal books, this is by far the best! Two authors give this book a depth that others do not. Each stone is listed alphabetically and contains a description from both authors. It is organized so that if you are looking for the spiritual, mental, or physical effects you can find them in an instant. Also listed with each stone are the chakras it affects and its elemental energy. By far this is my favorite book about stones!

REVIEW: Prior to this book I used to use Melody and The Crystal Bible as my main resources. Now with this book I must say that the combination of the two has culminated the best. The excellent information by Robert and Naisha is beyond expectations and the pictorials allow one to identify those mysterious crystal specimens. A must have for all crystal lovers, healers and collectors. Well worth waiting for.

REVIEW: Best book on the market for beginners and long time crystal junkies alike. The pictures are wonderful, the comments spot on. I recommend it to everyone. I work in a crystal store and people are always asking what book to buy. This is it. Once you find that first crystal that speaks to you...you’re hooked. Then it's time to get the book and learn about these magnificent gifts of the earth that are here for us. You will love it and if you’re not “into” crystals and stones, then gift it to someone that is. Learning about this can change a life..truly...have watched this again and again.

REVIEW: I bought this book because I already have the first printing of it. This is the updated on. There is a lot more information in this book than the first one. I use it all the time with my stones for a lot of reasons. I cross-reference this one with other ones that I have. Since it is written by two people with basically very different write ups on each stone. You get two completely different looks at the stone. There are still a few stones in this book that I don't have. This book is a great one to have. I have quite a few books on stones written for different reasons this is one of those must have books for those who love stones of any kind. The book has wonderful pictures of all the stones, and I am sure it took a great deal of work when into putting this book together. I enjoy it very much.

REVIEW: I have many books regarding crystals and stones. This is one of my favorites. The descriptions are so complete ans helpful. The photography is wonderful. I recommend this book for anyone wanting to learn more about crystals and stones and all of their uses.

REVIEW: This is definitely a must have book if you have any interest whatsoever in stones and crystals. I've looked at many and this is by far the most informative. The amount and quality of information is vast. It's also fun to verify that the crystals you pick up by intuition are the very ones appropriate to your situation.

REVIEW: I have many books on various metaphysical topics, including crystals. The Book of Stones is probably my favorite from my collection. It includes 2 objective resources for each stone, ways to use them, what stones they work well with, their structure, hardness and sources, and most importantly, pictures. I have too many books that don't have pictures, or they only have one and it is probably the least available form of the stone.

REVIEW: Great book! I have gained lots of new points of interest from reading this book. Well written, excellent pictures with a wide range of crystals making this a valuable resource for my work with crystals. This book had already come recommended to me by a crsytal lover. On reading it I understand why. It is a must have book! I will be keeping an eye out for other books from these authors.

REVIEW: This book is a well organized and specific right down to the affirmation to use when meditating on a particular stone for a specific problem. I've started using an extensive array of crystals and stones to send healing. I've found this book to be incredibly helpful and I'm amazed at how much I've learned in a short time. This is an excellent reference when purchasing stones or jewelry. Cleanse stones and jewelry carefully so as not to destroy their etheric power and they will reward you.

REVIEW: Robert Simmons and Naisha Ahsian offer wonderful insight into the metaphysical world of crystals, minerals and gemstones. I design my jewelry using specific stones to convey a feeling or message. This book has been an inspiration to begin a wonderful journey.

REVIEW: The Book of Stones is a fantastic reference guide for all gem/stone lovers. From beginner to aficionado, the book provides comprehensive coverage on each gem and stone. Well laid out, great pictures, and well written. If you have only one reference book, get this one... this is first of my top three favorites!!!

REVIEW: For anyone who does stone work, crystal healing, just loves the earth and all its magnificent creations, this book is a plethora of fabulous information. This book is a must for metaphysical crystal workers, and co-exists well with melodies wonderful books.

REVIEW: This the very first book I purchased when I got into crystals, and it remains my absolute favorite. I recommend this book to everyone, and definitely think it's worth having on your bookshelf.

REVIEW: This book came to me as a gift. I have several different books on stones/crystals but they always seem to be lacking in one stone or another. “The Book of Stones” doesn't have all known stones of metaphysical value in it but it comes as close as you will find today. Well worth the investment for someone who is drawn to stones and their spiritual properties and even for those that have some knowledge on the subject. I use it regularly and find it to be thorough and insightful.

REVIEW: This book is awesome it gives you alot of information on the stone itself and it also tells you what these stones have been used for like protection, healing, etc. It is a great find I don't even refer to the other books I have bought before I got this one.

REVIEW: I've bought several books on gemstones and minerals over the years but,this is the best book on the metaphysical properties of stones that I know of on the market today. I highly recommend it to everyone. Five Stars!

REVIEW: It's a book when you read it you know and also feel that what's written down is knowledge and wisdom from another level, things you can't read in other books about stones and crystals. You feel the love the writers have for stones, so to them I say, “thank you for sharing”.

GEMSTONES IN ANCIENT HISTORY: Throughout history, gemstones were believed capable of curing illness to providing protection. Found in Egypt dated 1500 B. C., the "Papyrus Ebers" offered one of most complete therapeutic manuscripts containing prescriptions using gemstones and minerals. In the eastern civilizations of China, India, and Tibet, gemstones were not only valued for their medicinal and protective properties, but also for educational and spiritual enhancement. Hereinbelow are a few examples of the uses for and beliefs concerning specific gemstone varieties in the ancient world.

Aquamarine: Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, as is emerald. It can be found in blue, blue-green, and green; though the blue color is by far the most valuable. The origin of the name "aquamarine" is Latin; "aqua", for water; "mare", for sea. Ancient Greeks believed Aquamarine held the essence and spirit of the sea. Wearing this stone as a talisman was believed to protect from adversities at sea, prevent sea sickness, and promote courage and a strong will, and to quicken the intellect. Ancient Greek jewelers made extensive use of aquamarine, which came to them via Arabian camel caravan and ocean-going Mediterranean galleys. The Romans also made extensive use of aquamarine in their jewelry. The ancient Romans believed aquamarine would bring victory in battles and legal disputes, and could render soldiers invincible.

Roman bridegrooms gave the aquamarine as a wedding gift to their brides the morning after the consummation of the marriage, believing that the stone absorbed the atmosphere of young love, and that it was also effective in reawakening the love of married couples, and that wearing aquamarine would bring a happy marriage, bringing the woman joy and wealth. According to Roman literature of the time, “when blessed and worn, aquamarine joins in love, and does great things.” The ancient (first century A.D.) Roman Naturalist and Historian Pliny wrote of aqumarine, “the lovely aquamarine, which seems to have come from some mermaid’s treasure house, in the depths of a summer sea, has charms not to be denied.” In addition ancient Romans believed that if the figure of a frog was carved onto an aquamarine it would help to reconcile enemies and make them friends.

The ancient Romans regarded aquamarine as sacred to Neptune, the god of the sea (“Poseidon” to the ancient Greeks), having fallen from the jewel boxes of sirens (mermaids) and washed onto shore (and of course aquamarine was also associated with the planet Neptune as well). So in addition to jewelry presented by bridegroom to bride, Roman mariners, fishermen, and those traveling over the sea wore aquamarine talismans, engraved with the likeness of Neptune on his chariot (or with trident in hand or in the company of a dolphin), as protection against dangers at sea such as storms, sea monsters, etc. Greek mariners of course did the same, but Neptune was known to them as “Poseidon”. Ancient Egyptian Mariners shared similar beliefs. Ancient fishermen believed that in addition to protecting them from the perils of sea, an aquamarine talisman would also increase the size of their catch.

The ancient Romans believed aquamarine also had medicinal uses as well, regarded as useful in curing illnesses of the stomach, liver, jaws and throat (including coughing, hiccups, and toothaches). The association with water led to the belief that aquamarine was particularly powerful when immersed. In fact, immersing the aquamarine gemstone in water and then allowing it to soak up sunshine was believed to greatly magnify the strength of the gemstone. The medicinal attributes of aquamarine were first recorded by the Latin Historian Damigeron in the second century B.C. “This stone is good besides for damage to the eyes, and for all sickness, if it is put in water and given as a drink.” Pliny also listed the stone in his treatise “Natural History” as an excellent cure for eye diseases. The eye was supposed to be washed in water in which an aquamarine was immersed. To cure serious eye ailments, it was recommended to place the powder of the gem in the eyes each morning.

Ancient Roman accounts recorded that the Emperor Nero used aquamarine as an eyeglass. Far-fetched as that may seem, in Germany at one time aquamarine was used to produce eyeglasses to correct shortsightedness. In fact, the German name for eyeglasses, “brille”, is derived from the German name for the mineral, beryl (aquamarine is a variety of beryl). Water in which aquamarine had been submerged was used in throughout the ancient world to heal a variety of illnesses of the heart, liver, stomach, kidneys, and mouth. The gem was also credited with curing belching and yawning and was considered especially effective for curing ailments of the jaws including toothaches. When worn as an amulet, it was believed to bring relief of pain and to make the wearer friendlier, quicken the intellect and cure laziness.

The ancient Sumerians, Egyptians, and Hebrews all also valued aquamarine greatly. It was a regarded as a symbol of happiness and everlasting youth. Aquamarine was also used in ceremonies in the belief that it would bring rain when needed, or visit drought upon enemies. The first written descriptions of aquamarine date back to the fourth century B.C., and aquamarine amulets have been unearthed by archaeologists dating back to 500 B.C. There was also mention of aquamarine in the Bible as one of the foundations of the post-apocalyptic New Jerusalem, as well as being described as one of the twelve stones in the breastplate of Aaron, the High Priest, representing the twelve tribes of ancient Israel. To Christians from the earliest times through the Medieval era aquamarine was identified with the Apostle St. Thomas, and symbolized harmony, happiness, innocence, youthfulness, purity, moderation and control of the passion.

Ancient Christians also wore aquamarine for its amuletic properties, believed to help protect against evil and conquer wickedness, and also to ward off Satan. In the Middle Ages aquamarine was also believed to give the wearer insight and foresight. And if a person held an aquamarine in his mouth, it was said that he could call a devil from hell and receive answers to any questions he might ask. During the Middle Ages the use of aquamarine as an antidote for poison was widespread throughout Europe. William Langland’s “The Vision Concerning Piers and the Plowman,” written in 1377 A.D., mentions the aquamarine as an antidote for poison. Because royal successions were so often hastened and brought forward by the poisoning of the reigning monarch, aquamarine was in great demand and fetched enormous prices.

As an antidote to poisoning it was not necessary to pulverize the stone, as it was with other gemstones. Simply wearing the stone as a pendant or in a ring was believed just as effective. Wearing the gemstone as a talisman was also believed to protect against evil spirits. Writers of the Middle Ages also claimed aquamarine was the most popular and effective of the “oracle” crystals. When cut as a crystal ball, it was thought to be a superior stone for fortune telling. Many methods of using the stone as a divining tool were described in ancient literature. quamarine’s powers of revelation were also said to help one in search for lost or hidden things. It was also believed that an aquamarine gemstone’s powers could be “recharged” and the color deepened by allowing it to sit in the light of a full moon for one night, but only one night.

Byzantine and medieval soldiers also carried aquamarine as a talisman, believing that as did the Romans before them, it rendered them invincible. In the Middle Ages aquamarine was still considered an effective remedy for problems involving visions, coughing, or toothaches; but it was also believed to relieve insomnia, melancholy, and act as a digestive aid and remedy for hearing problems. It was also believed helpful in attracting a compatible spouse, and was thought to reveal true friends versus false, by changing color. In the ancient world aquamarine was believed to provide emotional and intellectual stability and enhance the connection to higher self. It was believed to enhance one’s ability to think quickly, and to always be prepared. It was also believed to help judgmental people to be more tolerant, to help bring order to those who were overwhelmed with responsibility, and to help individuals take responsibility for their actions. Aquamarine was also believed to have a soothing influence on married couples, helping husbands and wives work out their differences and ensuring a long and happy marriage.

Aquamarine was also believed to be beneficial in connection with emotional ailments such as disorientation and fear, providing a calming effect for those suffering from both spiritual and psychological disturbances, as well as those suffering from grief. Intellectually it was believed to enhance communication and mental clarity, and was also regarded conducive for meditation as it was believed to quiet the mind and facilitate communication from higher planes. Wearing aquamarine as a talisman was believed to improve the wearer’s overall sense of well-being, and to aid those for whom procrastination was problematic. As a talisman, it was also reputed to bring to the wearer courage, and provide motivation and reassurance in times of intense physical and emotional stress. It was also believed to promote the wearer’s spiritual and psychic awareness, and to bring visions of the future.

Medicinally aquamarine was believed to assist in "cleansing" internal organs, to aid in digestion, and to cure sore throats, tooth aches, pain in the neck or jaw, headaches, glandular disorders (including lymph nodes), and was used to treat illnesses involving the lungs and eyes. Aquamarine was also used to treat arthritis and varicose veins. Reflecting the association between water and aquamarine, the gemstone was also believed to be an aid to fluid retention. Contemporary practitioners and astrologists hold that since aquamarine symbolizes the natural element of water, aquamarine possesses the quality and energy of cleansing and purification, and strengthens the immune system. It is also held that it is useful for treating eating disorders because of its ability to help heal the emotional problems that lie behind bulimia and anorexia. It is also claimed as useful in the treatment of post traumatic stress syndrome [AncientGifts].

Iolite: Known as the gemstone of the Vikings, Iolite is a blue-violet colored gemstone often mistaken for sapphire or tanzanite. Unknown to classical ancient Mediterranean cultures, it was used by Norse and Viking explorers to navigate. Mined from deposits in Norway and Greenland, this exceptional gemstone changes colors depending up the direction it is oriented, thus allowing crude navigator even without a fix on the sun or stars, vital in the fog-enshrouded northern Atlantic waters where the direction of the sun was otherwise impossible to discern. Iolite is usually a very richly textured purplish blue when cut properly. Called “water sapphire” by some as it is clear from one direction, light blue from another, and from the third direction, light yellow or gray.

Its darkest blue-violet shade is seen when held 90 degrees from the sun. It is also believed that the Vikings would use thin slices of iolite as polarizing filters, allowing them to look directly at the sun and determine its exact location in the sky. During the Middle Ages there exist accounts that Iolite was used by shamans to help achieve a deep trance state, stimulate visions, and stimulate astral travel. In some Medieval cultures Iolite was held sacred to the Mother Goddess, and in other Medieval cultures it was held to be sacred to the Father God or King of Gods (especially the Roman deity Jupiter).

The name iolite comes from the Greek ios, which means violet. In the 19th century it was known as "cordierite", after a French geologist, Pierre L. Cordier, who had “(re)discovered” the gemstone for the benefit of Western Europe. It was very popular during that century, but then drifted in obscurity. It is presently mined in Russia, India, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and Brazil. The largest iolite ever discovered is a 1714 carat nodule discovered at Palmer Canyon, Wyoming, and is known as the “Palmer Canyon Blue Star”. However typically pieces of rough over 8 carats are quite uncommon, and gemstone quality faceted gemstones over 1 carat are likewise fairly uncommon.

In the ancient world it was believed that iolite would help balance the various aspects of the personality, especially those characteristics within an individual considered "female" and "male". As well iolite was believed to bring harmony to interpersonal relationships, to help determine the truth, and as well to energize athletes. Iolite was also held to help purify the body of wastes. Iolite was also been used by mystics as an aid in bringing visions. In the Victorian era it was believed that wearing iolite would enhance one’s ability to manage money and avoid debt.

Iolite was also used to relieve headaches, and it was believed to enhance liver function, eliminating systemic toxicity. Modern practitioners believe that iolite gives its wearers a better understanding of themselves and their special purpose, helping them find direction that has been missing in their lives. It’s also believed to help wearers "let go" of feelings of helplessness and victimization related to circumstances, gently nurturing growth and maturity. Iolite is also reputed to increase spiritual insight and help in seeing both sides of an issue more clearly. On a more practical level, iolite is presently used in the manufacture of catalytic converters [AncientGifts].

Peridot: The name “peridot” was coined by the French, but the root is from the Arabic word "faridat" meaning "gem". Due to its yellow green color it was known in the ancient world as the "gem of the sun". Peridot was mined on St. John's Island (also called “Zebirget” or “Zabargad”) in the Red Sea, 45 shark-infested miles off the coast of Aswan, Egypt, as early as 3,000 B.C. Many pieces of ancient Egyptian jewelry (some as much as 4,000 years old) featuring peridot have been uncovered by archaeologists. The first century Roman Historian and Naturalist “Pliny the Elder”, in his "Natural History" (circa 70 A.D.) mentions both the island as well as its gemstones, referring to the Red Sea Island as "Chitis".

Legend has it that ancient pirates discovered peridot on Zebirget, but the island was often hidden by heavy fog and its location was lost for centuries. Another ancient legend pertaining to the island is that for thousands of years the thick fog typically enveloping the island protected the peridot from potential poachers, as if unsuspecting sailors approached, their ship would either be wrecked on a reef or captured and, either way, the crew enslaved to work in the mines so no one could go back and tell others. This barren little mound of land was one of the most heavily guarded locations of the ancient world. It is documented that the ancient Egyptians valued peridot so highly that guards stationed on the island were given orders to kill anyone approaching the shore without permission.

When originally discovered, the island was known as the ‘Isle of Serpents’. Supposedly, the island was so infested with pit vipers and mining so potentially deadly that the ancient Egyptian military was given the job of eliminating the viper population. According to ancient Egyptian legend miners searched for peridot crystals at night (when their glow gave away their location; ancient Egyptians believed the "jewel of the sun" became invisible under the sun’s rays), marked the spot, then returned to dig them up in daylight. Thousands of years later during the Middle Ages, this legend had evolved into the belief that peridot only showed its true beauty after nightfall.

To the ancient Egyptians, the glow of Peridot symbolized "Ra", their sun god. According to some accounts, peridot gemstones were a traditional “gift” given by the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt to their High Priests, ensuring according to one source, that the priests might "keep their minds free from envious thoughts and jealousies" concerning the pharaoh's powers and wealth. According to some ancient accounts, peridot was Cleopatra's favorite gemstone. Throughout the ancient Mediterranean peridot was believed to afford protection against the “evil eye”, that ancient belief that some evil sorcerers or witches had the ability to transmit evil with just a glance. The ancient Romans referred to peridot as “emerald of the evening”, and wore it for protection against enchantments, melancholy and illusion.

There are as well Old Testament references to peridot, though the gemstone was referred to as "pitdah", typically translated as ‘chrysolite’. According to biblical accounts, a peridot was one of the twelve stones adorning the breastplate of the high priest, Aaron, the twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of ancient Israel. During the Crusades it is believed that at some point the island came under Crusader control, and the island became known as “Saint John's Island” (its previous name, “Zabargad”, is the name for peridot in the Egyptian language). Although it's not known how long the Crusaders remained in control of the island, it is clear that they did engage in mining operations, stockpiling peridot.

At the end of the Crusades (after the final defeat of Crusaders forces and the capture of Acre by the Muslim Mameluks in 1291 A.D.), the Crusaders brought back to Europe large quantities of peridot. However true to form, the exact whereabouts of the island was then again lost to history, and and it was not until the early twentieth century that Zebirget and the peridot mines were rediscovered. The mines were worked up until the outbreak of World War II. Mining resumed again after the conclusion of World War II, but the mines were abandoned several decades ago. In Medieval Europe many powers were ascribed to this gem, and it was worn by many as a talisman so as to gain foresight and divine inspiration.

It was believed that peridot would dissolve as well as protect against the effects of enchantments and spells. To develop its full strength as a talisman, so as to enhance its potential to ward off evil spirits, peridot was set in gold or strung on donkey hair and tied around the left arm. One Medieval source (dated to about 1502 A.D.) cited the belief that using a piece of peridot upon which was carved an ass would enhance a sorcerer’s powers of prophecy, and that the engraving of a vulture onto the stone allowed control over various demonic spirits as well as the winds. Peridot brought into Europe as Crusader “booty” was also used in Medieval through Baroque Europe as an adornment for ecclesiastical treasures.

A particularly significant example of such ecclesiastical treasure would be that of one of the shrines in the Cologne Cathedral (the “Treasury of the Three Magi”). Acknowledged to be the largest and most valuable piece of medieval goldsmithing in existence, the reliquary was designed by Nicholas of Verdun (actively producing from about 1150-1210 A.D.), reputed to be the greatest goldsmith of his day. The reliquary is six feet long, four and one-half feet high, and three and one-half feet wide. Containing more than one thousand precious stones and an uncounted number of pearls, among the gems are three large peridots, each more than 200 carats in size. The precious stone and jewelry collection in the Tower of London also contains large peridot gems, as does the collection at the Vatican in Rome and the Diamond Treasury in Moscow.

Today peridot, also referred to not only as chrysolite, but also as “evening emerald” and olivine, is found in Norway, Germany, Russia, the Canary Islands, Saudi Arabia, Burma, Ceylon, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Australia, the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. Peridot gemstones have also been found within meteorites. The world's largest cut peridot, 319 carats, was found on Zagbargad Island. It now resides in the Smithsonian, Washington, D.C. Peridot was also found on Oahu in Hawaii. Native Hawaiians at one time believed peridot to be the tears of Pele, the Polynesian goddess of fire.

Given the ancient legends that the glow from peridot only “showed” to miners at night, and that peridot gemstones only showed their true beauty at night, peridot has always been magically linked to dreams and the astral realms, and the subconscious mind. In the ancient world peridot was used by ancient shamans and sorcerers for dream magic, for undertaking mystical journeys, and encouraging astral travel. Ancient physicians prescribed powdered peridot for asthma. The stone was also believed to lessen thirst in fever when held under the tongue (particularly effective for fever victims), and was also used as a cure for liver disease and dropsy. It was also believed that medicines taken from a goblet containing peridot enhanced the medicinal value and quickened the treatment. In the medieval world physicians used peridot to treat stomach ulcers, and to facilitate the birthing process wherein it was believed to stimulate contractions and dilation. It was also believed that peridot should be worn at night (or kept under your pillow) to protect against nightmares, night hags and vampires.

Wearing peridot is also said to help you keep your wits about you, especially in challenging situations, and protect you from foolishness, tactlessness and madness. Contemporary practitioners believe that peridot amulets possess magical powers which include the ability to improve the wearer’s intuition and the confidence to trust their intuitive insights (“gut feelings”). Peridot is believed to be a powerful crystal for emotional healing, able to help restore the missing or damaged fragments of a person's soul so that they can enjoy inner peace and contentment. Contemporary accounts also claim that peridot may be used to bring inspiration to poets and artists, along with the confidence and self-belief needed to realize creative dreams. Peridot is also said to be able to guide the wearer toward a happy marriage or true, loving friendships with like-minded people.

Peridot has also traditionally been used to heal bruised egos, lessen anger, and prevent jealousy, and is recommend by contemporary natural healers for those who feel hurt or angry. Wearing a peridot talisman is also believed to help speech by increasing one’s eloquence, as well as to remove impediments such as stutters and other speech-related handicaps. Natural Healers believe that peridot provides a protective shield around the entire body, and is useful in treating a damaged heart or lungs, pancreas, spleen, liver, and adrenal glands. Peridot is also believed to be effective in slowing the aging process, both physically and mentally. It is also believed to help alleviate stress, and has the power to enable the wearer to understand their destiny and spiritual purpose, helping the wearer to attain their full potential [AncientGifts].

Beryl: There are many members to the beryl family, including emerald (green beryl), aquamarine (blue-green beryl), heliodore (yellow beryl), morganite (pink beryl), red beryl (bixbite), and goshenite (colorless beryl). There’s also a very rare red-pink variety of Beryl found in Russia’s Ural Mountains known as “vorobyevite”, and there are several other very uncommon beryls. Two of those varieties are darker blue colored and known as “true blue” beryl (from Canada) and Maxixe beryl (from Brazil). Yet another uncommon variety is known as riesling beryl (from Germany), best described as pale green colored with a warm, golden yellow flash.

Most forms of beryl have to varying degrees been known throughout the history of mankind, but generally been identified as separate gemstones (such as emerald and aquamarine for example), and thus have unique histories. When the term “beryl” is used to describe a specific gemstone (and not a family of gemstones), it is generally meant to denote a gemstone quality beryl which is not one of the afore-mentioned named species (e.g., aquamarine, emerald, etc.), and usually in reference to green beryl, although sometimes the term “precious beryl” is used, and it is not uncommon to find some jewelers who use the simple term “beryl” to refer to heliodore (also known as “golden beryl”).

Beryl's name is derived from the Greek word “beryllus” (and the Persian “belur”), the term originally used in the ancient world to describe any green stone, and only later assigned to the beryl family as we know it today. The name “beryllus” in turn was derived from the Sanskrit word veruliyam. The name “heliodore” is Greek for “gift of the sun”. Beryl was actually used as far back as the Upper Paleolithic (Late Stone Age) period (about 40,000 to 100,000 years ago) to produce cutting tools. Ancient legends state that beryl was used to ward off demons and evil spirits, to protect against psychic manipulation or “spells” cast by magicians or shamans, and that it was used as a ceremonial stone in the rites of magic, as well as (when worn as an amulet or in a ring) to protect travelers and pilgrims from danger during their journeys.

Pliny the Elder, first century Roman Historian and Naturalist, recorded that powdered beryl was used by the ancient Romans to cure eye injuries and to treat disorders of the heart and spine. Beryl was also described by the fourth century B.C. Greek naturalist, physicist, and philosopher “Theophrastus” (who was a student of Plato and Socrates). An elixir of water in which beryl was dipped was used by the ancient Greeks to cure bladder infections and kidney stones. A medieval cure for asthma also involved the use of beryl, and the physicians of the Middle Ages regarded beryl as a remedy for liver disease and jaundice. The Bible even mentions beryl in the Song of Solomon, where it is said, "O daughters of Jerusalem, this is my beloved and this is my friend; his hands are as gold rings set with the beryl."

Other ancient legends pertaining to beryl indicate that beryl was used in the ancient world to promote cheerfulness and marital love, to retard laziness, and maintain youthfulness. Heliodore in particular was also believed to make one sympathetic and increase sincerity. Goshenite (colorless beryl) is believed to have been the first material used in the ancient world to produce eye spectacles (and accounts for the German name for glasses, “brille”). For well over a thousand years in the ancient and medieval world colorless beryl was used as a “crystal ball”, or “scrying stone”. Beryl was renowned for its (perceived) ability to induce magical visions in the minds of receptive people. One technique used by seers was to place a beryl gemstone in a bowl of water. When sunlight was reflected from the water, the reflections were believed to produce visions.

Beryl spheres were particularly popular with seers during the Middle Ages, particularly in early medieval Ireland. The mystical powers of beryl and its transparency made it a medium for seeing and predicting the future throughout much of mankind’s recorded history. Ancient populations also believed that a beryl engraved with a frog glyptograph magically possessed the power to turn opponents into friends, and when carved with a bird (according to a book published in 1685), the spirit of a deceased person could be invoked. Beryl was also used by ancient populations to bring rain during conditions of drought.

Beryl is found worldwide, most notably in Argentina, Afghanistan, Russia (both in Siberia and the Urals), the Ukraine, Kazakhstan, South Africa, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Namibia, India, the United States, Norway, Sweden, Austria, Germany, Greenland, and Brazil. The largest faceted golden beryl, 2,054 carats, is on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. Australia and Russia both produce very high-quality light green beryl, not to be confused with emerald, although in Australia the light green beryl produced there is in fact often referred to as “Australian Emerald” (though it is not actually emerald).

In the ancient world it was believed that beryl could bring the wearer eternal youthfulness, and it was also used as a remedy for nausea, obesity, ulcers and seasickness. It was also believed to strengthen the wearer’s memory, and to stimulate innovative ideas. In the ancient East beryl was conduct life-giving energy into the body, and was also known as the “composure” stone, believed to help wearers maintain good spirits. Present-day practitioners of alternative medicine believe that beryl helps strengthen the circulatory and pulmonary systems, making them more resistant to toxins and pollutants, and that beryl is also helpful to the eyes, throat, for curing gynecological disorders, and useful in easing a stressed mental state, and can even be used as a sedative. It is also believed to enhance the function of the kidney and liver.

Present-day mystics believe, as did the magi of the ancient world, that beryl remains the best stone available for crystal gazing. A mirror of polished beryl is said to be able to reveal other people's secrets, no matter how well hidden or private they are. Beryl is also believed by present-day practitioners to make the idle industrious, to increase the wearer’s energy levels, determination and motivation, particularly when the wearer is required to tackle boring, repetitive, or time-consuming work. The stone is also reputed to quicken the wit and sharpen intellectual skills. It is believed that wearing beryl while reading or studying will ensure that the information is understood and remembered [AncientGifts].

Bixbite: Bixbite is the orange-red to purple-red variety of beryl. The most valuable bixbite is that with a deep "raspberry" red color. Bixbite's color is permanent and impervious to heat or light. The red color of Bixbite is thought to be due to the element manganese substituting for aluminum in the beryl structure. Bixbite crystal are generally very small, and as a result the average faceted bixbite gemstone is only about 0.15 carat. Rarely are stones cut larger than 1 carat. Maynard Bixby discovered the original red beryl deposit in 1897 in the Thomas Mountain range of Juab County in western Utah. Since then only two other locations have been confirmed to possess red beryl deposits; the Wah Wah Mountains of Beaver County, Utah, and the Black Mountain range in New Mexico [AncientGifts].

Heliodor: The term “heliodor” is used to describe a golden, yellow, or yellow-green beryl, though there is some debate regarding whether “helidor” and “golden beryl” are terms which can be used interchangeably to describe the same gemstone, or if they are different gemstones; and if so, how they differ. Iron and uranium together are also responsible for the fresh, stimulating yellow, golden, and yellow-green color of heliodor. The name “heliodore” is Greek for “gift of the sun”. The ancient Greeks believed the sun to be a fiery chariot driven by the God Helios, and drawn by four fiery horses across the sky each day. At night Helios joined his sisters Selena (the Goddess of Night) and Eos (Goddess f the Dawn). Heliodor is mined in Brazil, Namibia, Madagascar, the USA, Russia (in the Ural Mountains), and the Ukraine. The largest faceted golden beryl, 2,054 carats, is on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C. [AncientGifts]

Morganite: Pink beryl is known in Russia as pink emerald – which is an apt description as emerald is beryl – as the only difference between them is that pink beryl is colored by manganese impurities; whereas other varieties of beryl are colored blue to green by impurities of iron (aquamarine), chromium (emerald), and vanadium (green beryl). For those few Americans who have never heard of pink beryl, they might know it better as “Morganite”, so named for the gemstone collector and capitalist J. P. Morgan. Just when exactly pink beryl (or if you prefer, “pink emerald” or “Morganite”) was first discovered is a source of contention. An American gemologist by the name of George Kunz is officially credited with the first “discovery” of pink beryl in California, and subsequently named it “Morganite” in 1911 for the financier and gemstone collector extraordinaire J.P. Morgan.

Pink beryl was also discovered “for the first time” (probably about the fifth time, actually) in Madagascar in 1908. Even the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles is confused, claiming that pink beryl was “first” discovered in the early 1900’s nearby (in California)…while at the same time displaying a large pink beryl which was donated to the museum in 1888. In Europe, pink beryl has been produced from Elba Island, Italy, since the 1880’s. Pink beryl was also produced from deposits in Siberia since the 1800’s as well, though it is not certain when it is first claimed to have been discovered or produced.

In any event there are no ancient beliefs pertaining to the medicinal or metaphysical uses of the stone. But in the past century practitioners have postulated that pink beryl, like its cousin aquamarine, provides relief from stress, helping wearers to maintain a positive attitude during times of crisis. It is also believed to enhance attributes such as patience, diligence, and communication skills. It is also believed to strengthen the bond between lovers and spouses. Like aquamarine, morganite is also believed to assist the cure of respiratory system ailments. Modern astrologers promote wearing morganite as an antidote to the chaos of modern life, suggesting that it provides peace at mind, body and soul and enhances the clarity of thoughts. [AncientGifts]

SHIPPING & RETURNS/REFUNDS: We always ship books domestically (within the USA) via USPS INSURED media mail (“book rate”). Most international orders cost an additional $17.99 to $48.99 for an insured shipment in a heavily padded mailer. There is also a discount program which can cut postage costs by 50% to 75% if you’re buying about half-a-dozen books or more (5 kilos+). Our postage charges are as reasonable as USPS rates allow. ADDITIONAL PURCHASES do receive a VERY LARGE discount, typically about $5 per book (for each additional book after the first) so as to reward you for the economies of combined shipping/insurance costs.

Your purchase will ordinarily be shipped within 48 hours of payment. We package as well as anyone in the business, with lots of protective padding and containers. All of our shipments are fully insured against loss, and our shipping rates include the cost of this coverage (through stamps.com, Shipsaver.com, the USPS, UPS, or Fed-Ex). International tracking is provided free by the USPS for certain countries, other countries are at additional cost.

We do offer U.S. Postal Service Priority Mail, Registered Mail, and Express Mail for both international and domestic shipments, as well United Parcel Service (UPS) and Federal Express (Fed-Ex). Please ask for a rate quotation. Please note for international purchasers we will do everything we can to minimize your liability for VAT and/or duties. But we cannot assume any responsibility or liability for whatever taxes or duties may be levied on your purchase by the country of your residence. If you don’t like the tax and duty schemes your government imposes, please complain to them. We have no ability to influence or moderate your country’s tax/duty schemes.

If upon receipt of the item you are disappointed for any reason whatever, I offer a no questions asked 30-day return policy. Send it back, I will give you a complete refund of the purchase price; 1) less our original shipping/insurance costs, 2) less non-refundable payment processing fees. Please note that does NOT refund payment processing fees. Even if you “accidentally” purchase something and then cancel the purchase before it is shipped, will not refund their processing fees. So all refunds for any reason, without exception, do not include payment processing fees (typically between 5% and 15%) and shipping/insurance costs (if any). If you’re unhappy with ’s “no fee refund” policy, and we are EXTREMELY unhappy, please voice your displeasure by contacting . We have no ability to influence, modify or waive policies.

ABOUT US: Prior to our retirement we used to travel to Europe and Central Asia several times a year. Most of the items we offer came from acquisitions we made in Eastern Europe, India, and from the Levant (Eastern Mediterranean/Near East) during these years from various institutions and dealers. Much of what we generate on Etsy, Amazon and goes to support The Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, as well as some other worthy institutions in Europe and Asia connected with Anthropology and Archaeology. Though we have a collection of ancient coins numbering in the tens of thousands, our primary interests are ancient jewelry and gemstones. Prior to our retirement we traveled to Russia every year seeking antique gemstones and jewelry from one of the globe’s most prolific gemstone producing and cutting centers, the area between Chelyabinsk and Yekaterinburg, Russia. From all corners of Siberia, as well as from India, Ceylon, Burma and Siam, gemstones have for centuries gone to Yekaterinburg where they have been cut and incorporated into the fabulous jewelry for which the Czars and the royal families of Europe were famous for.

My wife grew up and received a university education in the Southern Urals of Russia, just a few hours away from the mountains of Siberia, where alexandrite, diamond, emerald, sapphire, chrysoberyl, topaz, demantoid garnet, and many other rare and precious gemstones are produced. Though perhaps difficult to find in the USA, antique gemstones are commonly unmounted from old, broken settings – the gold reused – the gemstones recut and reset. Before these gorgeous antique gemstones are recut, we try to acquire the best of them in their original, antique, hand-finished state – most of them centuries old. We believe that the work created by these long-gone master artisans is worth protecting and preserving rather than destroying this heritage of antique gemstones by recutting the original work out of existence. That by preserving their work, in a sense, we are preserving their lives and the legacy they left for modern times. Far better to appreciate their craft than to destroy it with modern cutting.

Not everyone agrees – fully 95% or more of the antique gemstones which come into these marketplaces are recut, and the heritage of the past lost. But if you agree with us that the past is worth protecting, and that past lives and the produce of those lives still matters today, consider buying an antique, hand cut, natural gemstone rather than one of the mass-produced machine cut (often synthetic or “lab produced”) gemstones which dominate the market today. We can set most any antique gemstone you purchase from us in your choice of styles and metals ranging from rings to pendants to earrings and bracelets; in sterling silver, 14kt solid gold, and 14kt gold fill. When you purchase from us, you can count on quick shipping and careful, secure packaging. We would be happy to provide you with a certificate/guarantee of authenticity for any item you purchase from us. There is a $3 fee for mailing under separate cover. I will always respond to every inquiry whether via email or message, so please feel free to write.

HUGE PREMIUM VINTAGE MYSTERY COMIC BOOK LOT GOLD,SILVER,BRONZE SET OF 13 COMICS

$31.49

Book- Mackey's Symbolism of Free-Masonry, 1975

$111.59

Shi: Senryaku #2 Book II of III

$2.75